AUSTIN- With bragging rights on the line and thousands of cars on the road this weekend, the Texas Department of Transportation reminds drivers to arrive at the game safely as they make their way to Dallas for the long-standing TX-OU college football rivalry. In keeping with the weekend's football spirit, four TxDOT Travel Information Centers will be hosting tailgate-style events on Friday, Oct. 11 in Gainesville, Denison, Wichita Falls and Amarillo to encourage drivers to take needed rest breaks.

"This classic football rivalry is an exciting Texas tradition, but it also contributes to extremely heavy traffic conditions across the state and especially on highways leading into the Cotton Bowl in Dallas," said Phil Wilson, TxDOT executive director. "We ask that drivers give themselves plenty of travel time to allow for rest breaks and traffic delays so they can arrive safely to cheer on their team. So we are encouraging them to stop at one of our Travel Information Centers or Safety Rest Areas along the way."

Activities and giveaways will include bottled water, hot dogs, popcorn, lemonade (provided by sponsors) and performances by area high school marching bands and cheerleader squads at some centers. Also on hand will be information about how to drive safely and the dangers of drinking and driving or distracted driving. In addition to the Travel Information Centers, drivers also are encouraged to take a break at TxDOT Safety Rest Areas located throughout the state.

"We also want this longstanding football tradition to be safe for everyone," Wilson said. "Not just those in the stadium or on the field, but also the millions who are on our roadways headed to the game, or the State Fair or anywhere."

In Wichita Falls, exit 1C at Interstate 44 West/East and also exit 1C along US Hwy 287 South/North

For road conditions on Texas highways, visit www.DriveTexas.org or call 1-800-452-9292. Follow @TxDOT or @I35Travel for statewide information, or visit www.txdot.gov and search for "Twitter" for a list of regional Twitter sites.

The Texas Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining 80,000 miles of road and for supporting aviation, rail, and public transportation across the state. TxDOT and its 12,000 employees are committed to working with others to provide safe and reliable transportation solutions for Texas by maintaining a safe system, addressing congestion, connecting Texas communities, and being a Best in Class state agency. Find out more at TxDOT.gov. Fan us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.